Ophthalmologist

What is an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist is an eye care specialist. Unlike optometrists and opticians, ophthalmologists are doctors of medicine (MD) or doctors of osteopathy (DO). They have specialized training and experience in diagnosing and treating eye and vision conditions.

What education is required to become an ophthalmologist?

Ophthalmologists must earn a four-year undergraduate degree (usually in a premedical major), then a degree from medical school (either MD or DO). After that, they must complete a one-year internship and at least three years of specialized medical and surgical training in eye care.

In the U.S., ophthalmologists must obtain a license to practice from their state’s regulatory board.

What does an ophthalmologist do?

An ophthalmologist is qualified to deliver total eye care, including:

• Eye exams.
• Vision services (including prescribing glasses and contacts).
• Diagnosing and treating diseases and vision issues that other health conditions (like diabetes) cause.
• Prescribing medications.
• Performing eye surgery.

When would I need to see an ophthalmologist?

An ophthalmologist can diagnose and treat a wide range of eye and vision issues, including:

• Farsightedness (hyperopia).
• Nearsightedness (myopia).
• Astigmatism.
• Amblyopia (lazy eye).
• Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
• Age-related eye problems (like macular degeneration).

You’ll need to see an ophthalmologist if you need eye surgery or specialized treatment, including for:

• Cataracts.
• Glaucoma.
• Retinal detachment.
• Corneal disease.
• Diabetes-related retinopathy.
• Strabismus.
• Serious eye injuries.

When should I have my eyes examined?

Having your eyes and vision checked regularly can help your ophthalmologist identify problems right away. How often you should get your eyes checked usually depends on your age:

• Kids: A pediatrician should check your child’s eyes at every well-child visit until they’re old enough to start school, and then every one to two years.
• Adults younger than 40: every five to 10 years.
• Adults between 40 and 54: Every two to four years.
• Adults older than 55: Every one to three years.

If you have diabetes, you should have your eyes checked every year to monitor your eyes for early signs of diabetes-related retinopathy.

You might need your eyes checked more often than this if you wear glasses, contacts or use another type of visual aid. Ask your ophthalmologist or healthcare provider if you need eye exams more often.

Visit your ophthalmologist or another eye care specialist as soon as you notice any changes in your vision. Talk to your eye care specialist if you notice any new symptoms in your eyes, including:

• Eye pain that doesn’t go away in a few days.
• Blurry vision.
• Double vision (diplopia).
• Red eye.
• Light sensitivity (photophobia).
• You notice your vision getting worse or it’s harder for you to see clearly.
• You see new floaters or flashes of light.

Which questions should I ask my ophthalmologist?

Questions you may want to ask your ophthalmologist include:

• How often should I have my eyes checked?
• Which treatments will I need?
• Will I need eye surgery?
• How long will it take to recover after surgery?

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

Ophthalmologists and optometrists and are both eye care specialists.

Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MD) or doctors of osteopathy (DO) who have attended medical school. They’re qualified to diagnose and treat any condition that can affect your eyes and vision. They can also perform eye surgery.

Optometrists are doctors of optometry (OD). They can diagnose and treat many issues, but they don’t perform surgery on your eyes. Your optometrist might refer you to an ophthalmologist if they identify an issue in your eyes that requires surgery.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

An ophthalmologist is an eye doctor who can help you manage every part of your eye health. They can do all your routine eye exams and correct common vision issues, but they can also perform eye surgery for more complex issues.

Some people visit an ophthalmologist for all their regular eye care — others only see one when they need surgery or specialized care. No matter when you see an ophthalmologist, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your ophthalmologist will make sure you understand every test, result and treatment you’ll need.